One-Off Lamborghini Marzal Returns To Monaco After More Than 50 Years

The legendary concept hadn't been driven since the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix.

In 1967, the Lamborghini Marzal concept caught the eye of Prince Rainier III of Monaco when it was showcased at the Formula One Grand Prix. Created by Carrozzeria Bertone, the futuristic four-seater prototype attracted a lot of attention during its public debut, thanks to its glazed gullwing doors, silver leather upholstery, and rear transverse engine. As soon as he saw it, he chose it as the car he would drive for his lap of honor to open that year’s Grand Prix alongside his wife Princess Grace.

One year later in 1968, the Marzal concept paved the way for the Espada, one of Lamborghini’s most successful historic cars and one of the first four-seater GTs. Now, 51 years later Lamborghini has brought the Marzal back to Monte Carlo to open the start of the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique. Behind the wheel was Rainier's son, the current sovereign Prince Albert, who was accompanied by his nephew Andrea Casiraghi. The historic run marked the first time the Marzal has been driven in public since 1967. It was recently restored to its former glory by Lamborghini Polo Storico and is said to boast “perfect mechanical performance”.

Joining the Marzal was a fully restored 1976 Lamborghini Espada, which is also . The model shown at the event is an unusual example that has remained in Lamborghini’s possession since it was constructed. It was used for several type-approval tests for the American market and development. The restoration project took ten months to complete, with reworked mechanics, electrics, bodywork and interior, which still has the original upholstery. Only original Lamborghini parts were used for the restoration of one of Lamborghini’s forgotten classics.